Jim Sommer Passes Away

Thanks to the efforts of Norma Deardorff Plummer and John Spencer, we've learned of the passing of Jim Sommer, another of our classmates. Jim passed on October 28th in Darien, IL. It goes without saying our deepest sympathy goes out to Jim's family and friends. Losing a classmate is getting more difficult with each loss. We seem to have lost so many since the reunion, and each loss carries with it special memories of the fallen classmate. May each of them rest in peace.

Save the Poles

A recent e-mail from Judy Dian Larsen has introduced us to the website of her son, Eric, who is on a 365-day adventure to reach the South Pole, the North Pole, and the summit of Mt. Everest (that's at the top of my Bucket List). Eric is currently in Antarctica, making his way to the pole. You'll be linked to Eric's web page thru the title of this blog entry; in the website, you can keep abreast of his travels and adventures. Judy also advised Eric has a fan club on Facebook, and MSNBC.com has occasional updates on his progress. What an extraordinary life to lead --- you must be very proud (and worried to death).

Lass Grandsons Soar Like Eagles

I received the following from Betty Staub Lass:

"My twin grandsons age 16 received their Eagle scout ranking in an Eagle scout ceremony on October 24. The master of ceremony was their older brother, who
received his Eagle scout badge last year. It takes a lot of work and many years to achieve the highest ranking in scouting. I'm very proud of their accomplishment."



Our congratulations go out to these fine boys, too. This is indeed a great accomplishment!

Brand Bobosky is Mr. Century Walk

As many of you West Suburbanites might know, Brand Bobosky (he'll always be Wimpy to me) is almost solely responsible for the Century Walk project in Naperville. He introduced and promoted this project, "the creation of public art throughout Naperville's greater downtown, permanently portraying Naperville's significant 20th century people, places, and events," and is currently serving as President of the Century Walk Corporation. As you also might know, he and his wife, Mary Ann, have been significant forces in Naperville throughout their married life. They have contributed greatly to Naperville in many ways and have certainly fulfilled their desire to "give back". We salute them!!

In about a month, a larger-than-life sculpted likeness of Dick Tracy will join the already placed 34 pieces of art in the Century Walk. Dick Locher, who succeeded Chester Gould in drawing the comic strip, has been a Naperville resident for almost 1/2 century. Lochner was responsible for creating the 11-inch model from which came the 9-foot tall bronze. A picture will be forthcoming as soon as the sculpture is placed and dedicated.

Lillian Cinkus Passes Away

Carl Cinkus lost his mom, Lillian, on September 12 at the age of 99. How wonderful to have been able to share so many years with her. Our condolences to Carl and his family --- it's always tough losing a parent.

Nan is a Great Grandma

While I'm sure there are others in the class, the first Great Grandma I've heard about is Nan Vancil Biddle. Pictured above is Nan's pride and joy, 8-month old Brody William Daniel, and he's being taught the love of fishing by his Grandpa Greg Daniel, Nan's son-in-law. He and Nan's daughter Beth and family spent a month in the Keys, where Brody showed them how to hook the big one. His dad is Nan's grandson, Bret, a student at FSU along with his wife.

We've Lost Jack Loehman

Carole Johnson Lehmann notified us of the passing of Jack Loehman this week. Jack and Phyllis Hagedorn were high school sweethearts and were married some 50 years. The father of 3 and the grandfather of 3, Jack owned and operated Elmhurst Auto Parts for 45 years.
Our deepest sympathy goes to Phyllis and their family; please know all your classmates share your loss.